• Show us documents proving your child’s: United States citizenship or immigration status; adoption; age; and identity.

• Show us a document proving your identity.

• Show us evidence that establishes your relationship to the child if your name is not noted as the parent on the child’s evidence of age. The adoption decree or the amended U.S. birth certificate will suffice.

In most cases, you can mail or take your application and original documents to your local Social Security office. Remember, all documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents.

You may not yet have proof of your child’s citizenship, but we can assign a Social Security number based on documentation issued by the Department of Homeland Security upon the child’s arrival in the United States. When you do receive documentation of your child’s citizenship, you can bring it to us, and we will update your child’s record. We will mail your child’s number and card as soon as we have verified your documents with the issuing offices.

Question: Can I use the metal or plastic versions of Social Security cards that some companies make?

Answer: We don’t recommend it. There is no need to have a replica of your card. In most cases, the only time you may need to produce your Social Security card is when you apply for employment. At other times, we strongly recommend that you keep anything with your Social Security number on it with your other important papers. Do not carry your Social Security card with you. Also, we strongly advise against laminating your card. You should question anyone else other than your employer who asks for your Social Security number or your card. Not everyone you do business with needs it. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.

Question: I have children at home, and I plan to retire next fall. Will my children be eligible for monthly Social Security payments after I retire?

Answer: Your children may get monthly Social Security payments if they are:

• Unmarried and under age 18.

• Age 19 and still in high school.

• Age 18 or older and became severely disabled before age 22 and continue to be disabled.